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Red Lodge KOA: Camping with Porch-Swing Peace of Mind
Tucked just off Highway 212, with views that’ll stop you in your tracks and that small-town magic you can feel the second you arrive, the Red Lodge KOA is more than just a campground, it’s a family-run retreat with a whole lot of heart.
Jason and Rebecca Tubb didn’t just stumble into this lifestyle. Their story begins down south, where they ran a KOA in South Carolina for eight years, raising their five kids and helping travelers make memories one campfire at a time. But their hearts were always drawn westward. Back in 2011, they first laid eyes on the Red Lodge KOA and knew it was something special. The timing wasn’t quite right then, but sometimes the best things come back around. In 2022, with a bit of faith and a whole lot of excitement, they made the move to Montana and took over the campground they’d long called a “diamond in the rough.” And just like that, a new chapter began, one filled with mountain air, porch-swing vibes, and a front-row seat to Big Sky beauty.
Now operated with two of their daughters by their side, Red Lodge KOA truly lives up to the "family-owned and operated" badge. The Tubbs pour their hearts into every inch of the place, whether they’re upgrading RV sites or organizing a game of GaGa ball with visiting groups from Eagle Mount Billings, one of their favorite and most meaningful annual traditions.
What makes the Red Lodge KOA stand out? For starters, it’s been a part of the community for over 50 years, making it one of those local landmarks people use to give directions. (“You’ll pass the KOA and then keep going…” — you’ve probably heard it before.) And while it's well-known by locals and road-trippers alike, it’s the constant improvements and warm, personal touches that keep campers coming back year after year.
From KOA Patio RV sites complete with concrete pads, fire pits, and BBQ grills, to cozy Kamping Kabins and deluxe tent sites, there’s something here for every kind of camper, whether you’re a seasoned RVer or just want to fall asleep to the sound of crickets. They’re even upgrading more sites this season to Full Hook-Up, making sure you have all the modern comforts while still getting that rustic, peaceful Montana vibe. And if you're wondering what the vibe is? According to Jason, it's that sweet-tea-on-the-porch, lawn-freshly-mowed-on-a-Saturday kind of peace without any work.
And speaking of fun, don't miss the Rock Creek Mining Company, a gem mining sluice that’s open to the public daily from 8am to 8pm. It’s become a favorite with families, offering bags and buckets of gem-rich dirt starting at just $10. You’ll also find a charming boutique shop stocked with souvenirs and one-of-a-kind finds, perfect for taking a little Red Lodge magic home with you.
What truly makes this place shine, though, is the hospitality. The Tubbs and their team are known for keeping the grounds spotless and the smiles genuine. Whether it’s a friendly chat, a recommendation for the best hiking trail, or a spontaneous game with the kids, they go above and beyond to make every guest feel at home. It’s no surprise that the best compliment they ever received is one they hear often, “cleanest grounds and best service of any campground we’ve stayed at.”
As they continue to grow and improve the campground year after year, one thing stays the same: the Red Lodge KOA is here to offer families and travelers a place to slow down, soak in the views, and maybe roast a marshmallow or two. So next time you're cruising through the Beartooth's or planning a weekend escape, consider this your invitation to experience that porch-swing peace — no mowing required.
